The Parmesan (Parmigiano Reggiano) is a cheese with low water content and this lets you store it for long periods, depending on the packaging and the environment.
Vacuum packed Parmesan (Parmigiano Reggiano)
You can store vacuum packed Parmesan (Parmigiano Reggiano) in the refrigerator, at a temperature between 4 and 8 ° C. Make sure the package is intact and well sealed; otherwise, the cheese could become moldy.
If the package is intact and stored in the refrigerator, the product can last for months. In case of doubt, you can always check the date indicated on the package: it is not a mandatory expiry date, but a date of use; if you notice, it is preceded by the words “to be consumed preferably by”.
Can Parmesan Parmigiano Reggiano be stored outside the refrigerator? For a few days yes, you can keep it even at room temperature, but keep in mind that the fridge is always the best choice.
Chopped Parmigiano Reggiano
If the Parmesan cheese is cut or no longer vacuum packed, we suggest you put the cheese in a glass or plastic food container or/and wrap it in a slightly damp cotton cloth, and always store it in the refrigerator. We do not suggest to use film because it can compromise the original humidity level. All these precautions will prevent the product from absorbing the other odors present in the refrigerator and that the humidity level of the product is optimal.
How long does the already cut Parmesan in the fridge last? It depends on the humidity of the product – and therefore on its aging. The younger Parmesan, from 12 to 15 months, if already cut, can be kept in the refrigerator for about two weeks. For the most aged Parmesan (24 months or more), it can even reach a month. Despite these indications, check from time to time whether mold has formed on the surface of the cheese. If so, you can remove it with the tip of a knife.
Parmesan (Parmigiano Reggiano) can be freezed?
It’s an opportunity but not recommended: the thawing can modify the structure of the Parmesan’s organoleptic characteristics like color, flavor and texture.
Video: how to store Parmesan
Parmesan images gallery
